Unprecedented devout throng Infant Jesus Shrine feast on first day on Jan 14

Unprecedented devout throng Infant Jesus Shrine feast on first day on Jan 14

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Jan 15, 2017: Saturday marked the first day of the annual feast of Infant Jesus Shrine, Carmel Hill at Bikarnakatta in Mangaluru city here. The pomp, devotion and order it was conducted with was indeed a miracle by it self, as thousands from all corners congregated towards the shrine.

Nine days of Novena, from January 5 to January 13, were held as part of the feast and a Horekanike (offerings) procession from Kulshekar Church to the Shrine was held prior to that. There was an unseen before attendance which says that the devotions are at an all time high.

A solemn festal Mass was celebrated by Rev Dr Henry D’Souza, the bishop of Ballari, Fr Charles Serrao, provincial of Karnataka-Goa province, Fr Pius James D’Souza and many of the clergy concelebrated at 6 pm. The Masses were held from morning to evening followed by special prayer services for which hordes of faithful from all sections of the region were seen.

Bishop Dr Henry D’Souza in his gospel homily said, " Infant saviour Jesus came to bring all tosalvation. He love was beyond the purest love as son of God. He lived a humble life. He set an example for us as how to live piously and attain eternal life. Worldly wealth has no value in God’s eyes. We should walk on the path shown by Jesus. Service in hands, compassion in eyes, truth on tongue, love in heart, brightness in face are the main qualities a person should have for his fellows and him self."

The second day of the feast extends to Jan 15, Sunday a Holy Mass will be celebrated by Rev. Dr Francis Serrao, Bishop of Shivamogga.